How to Navigate Final Walkthroughs in LA Homes

Director of The National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents, Since 2013. Gea has been quoted in reputable industry sources New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and The Real Deal to name a few. To inquire about representation by Gea Elika Call: 212-590-0545.

A final walkthrough when buying a home in Los Angeles is your last chance to make sure everything is perfect before you close on your new home. Final walkthroughs are usually done the day of, or the day before, closing on the house. Ideally, it’s done once the current occupants have moved out so you can see exactly what you’re getting. It’s also your last chance to make sure there are no problems before you take ownership of the home. While a final walkthrough is not required by law, there are enough horror stories to convince you that you should not skip this important step.

A final walkthrough is not an inspection, but it is a chance for you to make sure everything is how it should be. When going through an inspection, especially once the homeowners have moved out, you can make sure that any appliances that were supposed to be there are still in the home. You can also check for any damage that may have been hidden by furniture or other items, and make sure that the home was not damaged when the previous occupants moved out.

What You Should Look for During a Final Walkthrough

It’s a good idea to do a final walkthrough before the day you close on your new home. If issues do come up, you’ll want some time for things to be fixed or repaired before you actually purchase the house. Scheduling the walkthrough a few days in advance can give you the time you might need should issues arise.

Hopefully, any issues will be minor and easily addressed. Things that you’ll notice quickly during a walk through are trash or belongings that may have been left behind by the previous owners. You may find out that the walls are not in great shape and need to be spackled or painted. You’ll also want to look for any damage that may have been caused by the movers. These are things that can usually be addressed quickly and easily before you begin your own moving process.

What Happens When You Discover A Larger Problem

Almost 100 percent of the time, a final walkthrough is merely a formality. It’s the last glance to give you peace of mind and to make sure your move-in goes smoothly. However, from time to time there are reports of buyers finding extensive water damage or leaks. You may discover that the homeowners took the appliances with them even though you agreed that those items would stay. If you see a larger issue that needs to be addressed, it’s important not to panic. Whatever the issue, discuss them with your Realtor.

If the problem is large enough, your Realtor can negotiate to adjust your contract to insist on money off of the price of your new home. In some instances, it may make sense for you to ask for cash to fix the problem. The seller is likely willing to work with you if the problem was previously unknown but severe. It’s important to talk it through and agree on an arrangement that works for everyone. And remember, if all else fails, you haven’t bought the home yet.

Final Walkthrough Check-List

Have all repairs requested been made?

Were all changes/fixes made pursuant to the sales contract?

Yes

No

Has warranty documentation for the repairs been provided?

Yes

No

Check all appliances and systems, Do they all work?

Yes

No

Dishwasher

Yes

No

Heating

Yes

No

Air conditioner

Yes

No

Thermostats

Yes

No

Ceiling fans

Yes

No

Hot/cold water on all faucets

Yes

No

Refrigerator/freezer

Yes

No

Microwave

Yes

No

All stove burners and oven

Yes

No

Garbage disposal

Yes

No

Washing machine and dryer

Yes

No

Electrical outlets

Yes

No

Overhead Lighting and Sconces

Yes

No

Smoke detectors

Yes

No

Garage door

Yes

No

Doorbell

Yes

No

Alarm System

Yes

No

All remotes or keypads

Yes

No

Plumbing Check

Do all toilets flush?

Yes

No

Do all sinks fill and drain properly?

Yes

No

Do all bathtubs fill and drain properly?

Yes

No

In case of a jacuzzi do all jets work?

Yes

No

Do all showers drain properly?

Yes

No

Windows and doors

Do all windows and doors open and lock properly?

Yes

No

Are any windows broken?

Yes

No

Mold Check

Do windows have mold?

Yes

No

Check under sinks for mold or water damage

Yes

No

Check showers for mold or water damage

Yes

No

Check toilets for mold or water damage

Yes

No

Exterior of the property

Is there any change or damage to the roof and siding on the exterior?

Yes

No

If there is an irrigation system, is it working properly, are there any leaks?

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